Networking for professional development is a career-long process. It’s easy to return to your office from a business event with stacks of business cards that go into dusty piles. Focused networking involves the intention to build lasting relationships.

Instead of scattershot introductions, set the intention to meet someone who can help you with your career or business. Know what you want before you enter an event and don’t be afraid to tell people what you seek.

Tips to creating powerful networks include:

Attend professional events on a regular basis

Maintain contact with those you meet

Look for opportunities to volunteer

Give, give and give! Be generous.

The objective of networking is to create meaningful and valuable career- long relationships.

Make it a goal to create circles of trust and support. By actively participating in a professional network, you can become a trusted ally and a player in your industry.

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Ready to hire for your team? Or ready to power your own career for personal success?

Can you pick up on warning signs? You can start with the interview process. According to Monica Ballard, CEO of Parallax Education, behavioral-based interviewing is grounded on the theory that past behavior predicts future behavior.

Mention of owning or using use of firearms during the interview process (if not in context to the dialogue)

If you have doubts about a candidate who can do the job, seek a second opinion from others involved in the interview process. Check references, run a background check and do due diligence. If in doubt, don’t move forward.